BIM: everything you need to know about Building Information Modeling

The acronym BIM stands for the expression Building Information Modeling, i.e. the digital construction information system based on 3D models and a series of data relating to the building. In this article we will try to provide a clearer definition of the concept, also analyzing the advantages associated with it.

What is BIM?

Giving an exhaustive definition of the concept of BIM is not easy. There has been an attempt to do so in Europe, in which the BIM come “shared digital representation of a built object (including buildings, bridges, roads, process plants, etc) to facilitate design, construction and operation processes to form a reliable basis for decisions.”

However, the clearest definition is the one born in the United States. Based on this approach, BIM means nothing other than the technology that allows the transfer of data and information about a building, in order to create a digital representation of an asset. The digital representation consists of a three-dimensional geometric model (Digital Twin). Ultimately, BIM is an information model that allows you to collect all the information about a building in a single tool.

Why BIM matters?

But why is the concept of BIM experiencing such wide diffusion? Because it's so important? With the increase in the world population that we will encounter in the coming decades, it is necessary to identify efficient construction methods from all points of view. It is precisely within this scenario that the concept of BIM fits: through the adoption of this method, and therefore through the acquisition of data, it allows you to work smarter.

BIM is also a method to enable business growth, as it is based on the teamwork and on the collaboration of all those who work in the design phase. Furthermore, the model, providing a large amount of information, allows buildings to be built taking into account their impact on the environment, minimizing the risk of waste and excessive consumption.

Among the advantages offered by the application of the model, the possibility of minimize errors during the design phase, also reducing times.

The tools needed to design and build with BIM

To use BIM it is necessary to have certain software that allows the creation of virtual models. In particular, There are three main softwares:

• BIM tools, which is used to collect data;
• BIM authoring, which is used to create the 3D model;
• BIM management system, which serves to organize processes and data in a single collaborative environment.

It is important to remember that when choosing different software you need to check whether they have the IFC certification di buildingSMART international, which guarantees the high quality of the instrument.

BIM in Italia

BIM is spreading widely in all parts of the world, including Italy. Actually, the country is slower to adopt this methodology than other countries, such as England for example. However, notable progress is also being made in Italy from this point of view. In particular, the legislative push that allowed a series of steps forward to be taken should be noted. For example, the decree of 2 August 2021, which modified the MIT decree of 1 December 2017, has foreseen an introduction of BIM with different timing, establishing its obligation only for projects above the threshold 1 million euros.

Starting from 1 January 2022 Instead It is also mandatory for new constructions and interventions on buildings existing of amount to 15 million euros. Il 1 January 2023 the obligation will also extend to new construction works and works on existing buildings for a tender amount equal to or greater than the threshold of 5.350.000 euro. In the end, starting from 1 January 2025 The mandatory application of BIM is also foreseen for new construction works and interventions on existing buildings for a tender amount equal to or greater than 1 million euros.